Fire hero: Economic Development & Labour Bureau Assistant Secretary Gavin Kwai says the MTR arson attack has shown the civic-mindedness of Hong Kong people and he feels very proud of being one of them.

Monday's MTR arson attack that hospitalised 14 commuters not only sparked people's anger towards the culprit but also showed our citizens' bravery and civic-mindedness.

Economic Development & Labour Bureau Assistant Secretary Gavin Kwai is one of those who helped limit damage and injury during the incident.

In an interview with news.gov.hk, Mr Kwai said he detected a burning smell as the train left Tsim Sha Tsui station.

"I looked around and found a man igniting something. So I shouted at him and he dropped the burning material on the floor," he said.

Mr Kwai tried to put out the fire by stamping on the burning substance, but the train compartment was soon filled with smoke.

When the train arrived at Admiralty station, Mr Kwai and several passengers tried to intercept the arsonist, however, he managed to flee.

Mr Kwai said he is surprised by the public and media praise for his actions. Saying his move was just a natural reaction of a normal person, he said many passengers also helped out during the incident.

"Although the situation was a little chaotic, people still tried very hard to find their way out in an orderly manner. Everyone was busy doing something to help each other. Some people activated the alarm system while others called Police. Some even tried to comfort other panic-stricken passengers and helped them stay calm," he said.

"The incident has shown the civic-mindedness of Hong Kong people and I feel very proud of being one of them."